U.S. patent application number 17/729032 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-11 for vehicle light assembly including a movable light signature member.
The applicant listed for this patent is Volvo Car Corporation. Invention is credited to Jan-Erik Fritzon, Berk Keskin.
Application Number | 20220252235 17/729032 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006289321 |
Filed Date | 2022-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220252235 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fritzon; Jan-Erik ; et
al. |
August 11, 2022 |
VEHICLE LIGHT ASSEMBLY INCLUDING A MOVABLE LIGHT SIGNATURE
MEMBER
Abstract
A vehicle light assembly including one or more movable light
signature members that are selectively translated from a first
position partially or wholly in front of conventional light units
(low beams, high beams, taillights, etc.) to a second position away
from the light units when the light units are in use. Thus, for
example, the movable light signature member(s) can include one or
more LEDs or the like that are illuminated to act as daytime
running lights, turn signal indicators, accessory lights, etc. when
they are disposed in front of the light units and when the low
beams, high beams, or taillights are not in use. This provides the
desired light signature. When the low beams, high beams, or
taillights are in use, the movable light signature member(s) are
translated out of the way, such that the light units are visible
adjacent to and/or between the movable light signature
member(s).
Inventors: |
Fritzon; Jan-Erik;
(Torslanda, SE) ; Keskin; Berk; (Goteborg,
SE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Volvo Car Corporation |
Goteborg |
|
SE |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006289321 |
Appl. No.: |
17/729032 |
Filed: |
April 26, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
16367971 |
Mar 28, 2019 |
11346519 |
|
|
17729032 |
|
|
|
|
62774457 |
Dec 3, 2018 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21S 41/657 20180101;
F21Y 2103/10 20160801; F21S 41/698 20180101; F21W 2103/20 20180101;
F21W 2103/55 20180101; B60Q 1/04 20130101; B60Q 1/14 20130101; F21S
41/141 20180101; F21Y 2115/10 20160801; F21S 43/14 20180101; F21S
41/683 20180101; B60Q 1/30 20130101; F21S 41/689 20180101 |
International
Class: |
F21S 41/657 20060101
F21S041/657; F21S 43/14 20060101 F21S043/14; F21S 41/141 20060101
F21S041/141; B60Q 1/14 20060101 B60Q001/14; F21S 41/689 20060101
F21S041/689; F21S 41/698 20060101 F21S041/698; F21S 41/683 20060101
F21S041/683 |
Claims
1. A vehicle light assembly, comprising: a housing defining an
opening; an optically transparent lens cover coupled to the housing
and enclosing the opening defined by the housing; a light unit
disposed within the housing; a pair of movable light signature
members disposed within the housing, wherein the pair of movable
light signature members are adapted to be moved from a closed
position directly adjacent to each other between the light unit and
the optically transparent lens cover and along a light projection
path of the light unit to an open position spaced apart from each
other and removed from the light projection path of the light
unit.
2. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the pair of
movable light signature members each comprise one or more
light-emitting devices.
3. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, further comprising one or
more stationary light signature members disposed within the housing
adjacent to the pair of movable light signature members.
4. The vehicle light assembly of claim 3, wherein the one or more
stationary light signature members each comprise one or more
light-emitting devices.
5. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, wherein the pair of
movable light signature members comprise a first movable light
signature member and a second movable light signature member,
wherein the first movable light signature member and the second
movable light signature member are adapted to be moved vertically
from the closed position directly adjacent to each other and
between the light unit and the optically transparent lens cover and
along the light projection path of the light unit to the open
position spaced apart from each other and removed from the light
projection path of the light unit.
6. The vehicle light assembly of claim 5, wherein the first movable
light signature member and the second movable light signature
member each comprise an elongate structure disposed in a
substantially horizontal configuration.
7. The vehicle light assembly of claim 3, wherein the one or more
stationary light signature members each comprise an elongate
structure disposed in a substantially vertical configuration.
8. The vehicle light assembly of claim 1, further comprising one or
more actuation mechanisms each adapted to one or more of rotate,
pivot, and translate the pair of movable light signatures members
from the closed position to the open position.
9. The vehicle light assembly of claim 8, further comprising one or
more coupling mechanisms coupled between the pair of movable light
signature members and the one or more actuations mechanisms.
10. A vehicle light signature assembly, comprising: a pair of
movable light signature members, wherein the pair of movable light
signature members are adapted to be moved from a closed position
directly adjacent to each other between a light unit of a vehicle
light assembly and an optically transparent lens cover of the
vehicle light assembly and along a light projection path of the
light unit to an open position paced apart from each other and
removed from the light projection path of the light unit.
11. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 10, wherein the
pair of movable light signature members each comprise one or more
light-emitting devices.
12. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 10, further
comprising one or more stationary light signature members disposed
adjacent to the pair of movable light signature members.
13. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 12, wherein the
one or more stationary light signature members each comprise one or
more light-emitting devices.
14. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 10, wherein the
pair of movable light signature members comprise a first movable
light signature member and a second movable light signature member,
wherein the first movable light signature member and the second
movable light signature member are adapted to be moved vertically
from a closed position directly adjacent to each other and between
the light unit of the vehicle light assembly and the optically
transparent lens cover of the vehicle light assembly and along the
light projection path of one or more of a low beam unit and a high
beam unit of the light unit open position spaced apart from each
other and removed from the light projection path of the one or more
of the low beam unit and the high beam unit of the light unit.
15. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 14, wherein the
first movable light signature member and the second movable light
signature member each comprise an elongate structure disposed in a
substantially horizontal configuration.
16. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 12, wherein the
one or more stationary light signature members each comprise an
elongate structure disposed in a substantially vertical
configuration.
17. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 10, further
comprising one or more actuation mechanisms each adapted to one or
more of rotate, pivot, and translate the pair of movable light
signatures members from the closed position to the open
position.
18. The vehicle light signature assembly of claim 17, further
comprising one or more coupling mechanisms coupled between the pair
of movable light signature members and the one or more actuations
mechanisms.
19. A computer software product including a non-transitory computer
readable medium having instructions stored thereon and executed to
cause a processor to actuate a vehicle light signature assembly
comprising a pair of movable light signature members in accordance
with the following steps: upon determining that operation of a
light unit of a vehicle light assembly is desired, moving the pair
of movable light signature members vertically from a closed
position directly adjacent to each other between the light unit and
an optically transparent lens cover of the vehicle light assembly
and along a light projection path of the light unit to an open
position spaced apart from each other and removed from the light
projection path of the light unit; and upon determining that the
operation of the light unit is not desired, moving the pair of
movable light signature members vertically from the open position
spaced apart from each other and removed from the light projection
path of the light unit to the closed position directly adjacent to
each other between the light unit and the optically transparent
lens cover and along the light projection path of the light
unit.
20. The computer software product of claim 19, further comprising
the step of selectively enabling/disabling operation of one or more
light-emitting devices associated with the pair of movable light
signature members and the light unit.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present patent application/patent is a continuation
(CON) of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/367,971,
filed on Mar. 28, 2019, and entitled "VEHICLE LIGHT ASSEMBLY
INCLUDING A MOVABLE LIGHT SIGNATURE MEMBER," which claims the
benefit of priority of co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/774,457, filed on Dec. 3, 2018, and entitled
"VEHICLE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY AND METHOD INCORPORATING MOVABLE LIGHT
SIGNATURE," the contents of both of which are incorporated in full
by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the automotive
field. More specifically, the present invention relates to a
vehicle light assembly including a movable light signature
member.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] It is now common for vehicle headlights and/or taillights to
incorporate various arrangements of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or
the like that serve as "light signatures," allowing for the rapid
identification and recognition of a vehicle make/model when
illuminated. While serving as an effective marketing tool, such
light signatures can also provide legally required safety
equipment, acting as daytime running lights, turn signal
indicators, accessory lights, etc. These light signatures are
typically disposed around the periphery of the conventional light
assemblies, often within the same housing and behind the same lens.
Thus, the light signatures are often contained within and installed
as part of a unitary headlight or taillight assembly or module.
[0004] Disadvantageously, the light signatures require space in or
around the housing, and around the conventional light assemblies,
thereby increasing the size factor of the headlight or taillight
assemblies or modules. This also undesirably limits design
flexibility. It is therefore desirable to better integrate such
light signatures into the overall headlight or taillight assemblies
or modules. This is accomplished by the movable light signature
member(s) provided herein.
SUMMARY
[0005] The vehicle light assembly provided herein includes one or
more movable light signature members that are selectively
translated from a first position partially or wholly in front of
the conventional light units (low beams, high beams, taillights,
etc.) to a second position away from the light units when the light
units are in use. Thus, for example, the movable light signature
member(s) can include one or more LEDs or the like that are
illuminated to act as daytime running lights, turn signal
indicators, accessory lights, etc. when they are disposed in front
of the light units and when the low beams, high beams, or
taillights are not in use. This provides the desired light
signature. When the low beams, high beams, or taillights are in
use, the movable light signature member(s) are translated out of
the way, such that the light units are visible adjacent to and/or
between the movable light signature member(s). The movable light
signature member(s) can include a single light signature member
disposed in each housing that is translated either vertically or
horizontally to expose the underlying light unit or units.
Alternatively, the movable light signature member(s) can include
multiple light signature members disposed in each housing that are
translated apart to expose the underlying light unit or units. Each
movable light signature member can be translated to a position
where it is still visible and illuminated when the underlying light
unit or units are illuminated, or each movable light signature
member can be translated to a position where it is not visible
and/or not illuminated when the underlying light unit or units are
illuminated. Optionally, light signature provided herein also
incorporates one or more stationary members that also form part of
each daytime running light, turn signal indicator, accessory light,
etc.
[0006] In most of the examples provided herein, a pair of
horizontal movable light signature members disposed adjacent to a
stationary vertical light signature member are illustrated and
described. These horizontal movable light signatures members part
vertically to expose the underlying low beam and high beam light
units. The light signature members collectively operate as the
daytime running light, turn signal indicator, position light,
and/or welcome light in a headlight assembly. All components are
disposed in a modular housing and covered by a lens structure. The
actuation mechanism(s) operable for translating the horizontal
movable light signature members are included as part of this
modular housing, optionally including the associated actuation
motor(s), which are then coupled to the electrical and control
systems of the vehicle.
[0007] It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in
the art that different numbers and configurations of movable and
stationary light signature members could be used equally, and
provide different illumination functions. For example, the concepts
provided herein could apply to "point" signature members (as
opposed to "linear" signature members), taillight assemblies,
etc.
[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, the vehicle light assembly
provided herein includes: a housing defining an opening; an
optically transparent lens cover coupled to the housing and
enclosing the opening defined by the housing; one or more of a low
beam unit and a high beam unit (or a generic light unit) disposed
within the housing; one or more movable light signature members
disposed within the housing, wherein the one or more movable light
signature members are adapted to be moved from a closed position
between the one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit
and the optically transparent lens cover and along a light
projection path of the one or more of the low beam unit and the
high beam unit to an open position removed from the light
projection path of the one or more of the low beam unit and the
high beam unit. Optionally, the one or more light signature members
include a first movable light signature member and a second movable
light signature member, wherein the first movable light signature
member and the second movable light signature member are adapted to
be moved from a closed position adjacent to one another and between
the one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit and the
optically transparent lens cover and along the light projection
path of the one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit
to an open position spaced apart from one another and removed from
the light projection path of the one or more of the low beam unit
and the high beam unit.
[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, the vehicle light signature
assembly provided herein includes: one or more movable light
signature members, wherein the one or more movable light signature
members are adapted to be moved from a closed position between one
or more of a low beam unit and a high beam unit (or a generic light
unit) of a vehicle light assembly and an optically transparent lens
cover of the vehicle light assembly and along a light projection
path of the one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit
to an open position removed from the light projection path of the
one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit.
Optionally, the one or more light signature members include a first
movable light signature member and a second movable light signature
member, wherein the first movable light signature member and the
second movable light signature member are adapted to be moved from
a closed position adjacent to one another and between the one or
more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit of the vehicle
light assembly and the optically transparent lens cover of the
vehicle light assembly and along the light projection path of the
one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit to an open
position spaced apart from one another and removed from the light
projection path of the one or more of the low beam unit and the
high beam unit.
[0010] In a further exemplary embodiment, a computer software
product including a non-transitory computer readable medium having
instructions stored thereon and executed to cause a processor to
actuate a vehicle light signature assembly is provided, including:
upon determining that operation of one or more of a low beam unit
and a high beam unit (or a generic light unit) of a vehicle light
assembly is desired, moving the one or more movable light signature
members from a closed position between one or more of the low beam
unit and the high beam unit and an optically transparent lens cover
of the vehicle light assembly and along a light projection path of
the one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit to an
open position removed from the light projection path of the one or
more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit; and, upon
determining that the operation of the one or more of the low beam
unit and the high beam unit is not desired, moving the one or more
movable light signature members from the open position removed from
the light projection path of the one or more of the low beam unit
and the high beam unit to the closed position between the one or
more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit and the optically
transparent lens cover and along the light projection path of the
one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit. The
computer software product is further operable for selectively
enabling/disabling operation of one or more light-emitting devices
associated with the one or more movable light signature members and
the one or more of the low beam unit and the high beam unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The present invention is illustrated and described herein
with reference to the various drawings, in which like reference
numbers are used to denote like assembly components/algorithm
steps, as appropriate, and in which:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a partial front perspective view of one exemplary
embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in a closed
configuration;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a partial front planar view of one exemplary
embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in a closed
configuration;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a partial front perspective view of one exemplary
embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in an open
configuration;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a partial front planar view of one exemplary
embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in an open
configuration;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a partial back perspective view of one exemplary
embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in an open
configuration;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a partial top planar view of one exemplary
embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in a closed
configuration;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a partial front exploded perspective view of one
exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in a partially
open/partially closed configuration;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a side planar view of one exemplary embodiment of
the light signature actuation mechanism for the vehicle light
assembly provided herein;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a side planar view of another exemplary embodiment
of the light signature actuation mechanism for the vehicle light
assembly provided herein;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a partial front perspective view of another
exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, and a pair of
actuation mechanisms, in a closed configuration;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a partial front exploded perspective view of
another exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided
herein, incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature
members, a vertical stationary light signature member, and a pair
of actuation mechanisms, in an open configuration;
[0023] FIG. 12 is a partial front perspective view of a further
exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
incorporating a pair of horizontal movable light signature members,
a vertical stationary light signature member, low beam/high beam
light units, and a pair of actuation mechanisms, in an open
configuration;
[0024] FIG. 13 is a pair of partial top planar views of one
exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly provided herein,
utilizing both one and two actuation motor configurations;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a side planar view illustrating one exemplary
actuation motor setup utilized herein;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a side planar view illustrating another exemplary
actuation motor setup utilized herein, incorporating a parallel
manual actuation mechanism as well in a disengaged
configuration;
[0027] FIG. 16 is a side planar view illustrating another exemplary
actuation motor setup utilized herein, incorporating a parallel
manual actuation mechanism as well in an engaged configuration;
[0028] FIG. 17 is a side planar view illustrating a further
exemplary actuation motor setup utilized herein;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a side planar view illustrating a still further
exemplary actuation motor setup utilized herein;
[0030] FIG. 19 is a side planar view illustrating a still further
exemplary actuation motor setup utilized herein; and
[0031] FIG. 20 is a side planar view illustrating a still further
exemplary actuation motor setup utilized herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0032] The vehicle light assembly provided herein includes one or
more movable light signature members that are selectively
translated from a first position partially or wholly in front of
the conventional light units (low beams, high beams, taillights,
auxiliary lights, etc.) to a second position away from the light
units when the light units are in use. Thus, for example, the
movable light signature member(s) can include one or more LEDs or
the like that are illuminated to act as daytime running lights,
turn signal indicators, accessory lights, etc. when they are
disposed in front of the light units and when the low beams, high
beams, taillights, or auxiliary lights are not in use. This
provides the desired light signature. When the low beams, high
beams, taillights, or auxiliary lights are in use, the movable
light signature member(s) are translated out of the way, such that
the light units are visible adjacent to and/or between the movable
light signature member(s). The movable light signature member(s)
can include a single light signature member disposed in each
housing that is translated either vertically or horizontally to
expose the underlying light unit or units. Alternatively, the
movable light signature member(s) can include multiple light
signature members disposed in each housing that are translated
apart to expose the underlying light unit or units. Each movable
light signature member can be translated to a position where it is
still visible and illuminated when the underlying light unit or
units are illuminated, or each movable light signature member can
be translated to a position where it is not visible and/or not
illuminated when the underlying light unit or units are
illuminated. Optionally, light signature provided herein also
incorporates one or more stationary members that also form part of
each daytime running light, turn signal indicator, accessory light,
etc.
[0033] In most of the examples provided herein, a pair of
horizontal movable light signature members disposed adjacent to a
stationary vertical light signature member are illustrated and
described. These horizontal movable light signatures members part
vertically to expose the underlying low beam and high beam light
units. The light signature members collectively operate as the
daytime running light, turn signal indicator, position light,
and/or welcome light in a headlight assembly. All components are
disposed in a modular housing and covered by a lens structure. The
actuation mechanism(s) operable for translating the horizontal
movable light signature members are included as part of this
modular housing, optionally including the associated actuation
motor(s), which are then coupled to the electrical and control
systems of the vehicle.
[0034] It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in
the art that different numbers and configurations of movable and
stationary light signature members could be used equally, and
provide different illumination functions. For example, the concepts
provided herein could apply to "point" signature members (as
opposed to "linear" signature members), taillight assemblies,
etc.
[0035] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 1 and 2, in one
exemplary embodiment, the vehicle light assembly 10 includes a pair
of horizontal movable light signature members 12a, 12b, a vertical
stationary light signature member 14, a pair of actuation
mechanisms 16 disposed at either end of the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b, and a pair of low beam/high beam
units 18 disposed behind the horizontal movable light signature
members 12a,12b when the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b are in a closed configuration, as illustrated. In this
closed configuration, the horizontal movable light signature
members 12a,12b are disposed in close proximity to one another and
generally block the light projection paths of the low beam/high
beam units 18, essentially forming a unitary light signature in
front of the low beam/high beam units 18. Each of the above
components is discussed in detail herein below. Preferably, all of
the components are disposed within and/or form part of an enclosed
and/or sealed housing (not illustrated) and optically transparent
lens cover (not illustrated), both of which are well known to those
of ordinary skill in the art. This forms a modular unit that can
readily be installed in a vehicle, as conventional light assemblies
are.
[0036] Each of the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b is manufactured from a rigid plastic material or the like
and incorporates a plurality of LEDs, an LED light tube, or the
like suitable for forming a light signature when powered and
activated. Although elongate prismatic structures are illustrated,
any suitable shapes and configurations may be utilized. For
example, the movable light signature members 12a,12b may be
substantially cylindrical, arranged vertically instead of
horizontally, provide single points of light instead of linear
displays, etc., provided that they translate when actuated.
Further, a single movable light signature member 12a,12b can be
utilized, instead of a pair. In the exemplary embodiment
illustrated, the horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b
are aligned horizontally and adapted to translate apart from one
another vertically, thereby reveling the low beam/high beam units
18 disposed behind the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b between the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b, such that light may be projected from the low beam/high
beam units 18 between the horizontal movable light signature
members 12a,12b. Optionally, when the horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b are deployed, they move vertically up
down and are retracted into the housing above/below the low
beam/high beam units 18 such that they are no longer visibly
illuminated through the lens cover. They may also be shut off when
deployed in this manner. Alternatively, when the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b are deployed, they are positioned
such that they are still partially or wholly visibly illuminated
through the lens cover, although in a deployed position. In this
case, they are not shut off when deployed.
[0037] Functionally, the horizontal movable light signatures
members 12a,12b may collectively operate as a daytime running
light, a turn signal indicator, a position light, and/or a welcome
light when activated.
[0038] In this exemplary embodiment, the vertical stationary light
signature member 14 is disposed at one end of the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b, collectively forming a
"t-shaped" light signature. The vertical stationary light signature
member 14 is illuminated with one or more LEDs, an LED light tube,
or the like accordingly. It will be readily apparent to those of
ordinary skill in the art that vertical stationary light signature
member 14 does not have to be used or can be otherwise positioned
or aligned. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the vertical
stationary light signature member 14 includes upper and lower
portions that are disposed at an angle to one another, although
this is not strictly necessary.
[0039] Functionally, the vertical stationary light signature member
14 operates as the daytime running light, the turn signal
indicator, the position light, and/or the welcome light with the
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b when activated,
or alone when the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b are deployed and/or deactivated. The vertical stationary
light signature member 14 can also be selectively
activated/deactivated. The vertical stationary light signature
member 14 is also manufactured from a rigid plastic material or the
like and coupled to appropriate power and control systems.
[0040] Each of the actuation mechanisms 16 includes a gear
assembly, pivot assembly, or track system by which the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b are translated and/or
rotated from their closed configuration to their open configuration
and back again. A gear or pivot assembly is slightly preferred
because it provides smooth movement with less binding, although a
track system could be used. The best choice of actuation mechanism
type is dependent upon the desired direction and manner of
deployment of the movable light signature member(s) 12a,12b. In the
exemplary embodiment illustrated, each of the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b is coupled to the actuation
mechanisms by a pair of coupling members 20. It will be readily
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that only one of the
actuation mechanisms 16 may drive the movement of the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b, while the other actuation
mechanism 16 may simply guide such movement. Optionally, each of
the actuation mechanisms 16 includes one or more attachment points
22 by which the light assembly 10 is coupled to the housing, and/or
by which the housing is coupled to the vehicle, using screws or the
like. The actuation mechanisms 16 may be manufactured from a rigid
plastic material or the like, as well as the coupling members 20
and attachment points 22.
[0041] The low beam/high beam units 18 disposed behind/between the
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b, which
optionally consist of a single unit, are conventional headlight or
taillight units or the like that include a powered point light
source, reflector, etc. disposed in a beam housing and configured
to project light from a vehicle. These low beam/high beam units 18
may incorporate self-leveling functionality, corner-bending
functionality, and the like, all of which are well known to those
of ordinary skill in the art. Typically, when these beams are
engaged, the daytime running lights and the like are not, although,
in certain situations it may be desirable for the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b to be on in all positions
and configurations. For example, the horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b could "flash" with the low beam/high beam
units 18 even when closed or opened/retracted.
[0042] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 3 and 4, the light
assembly 10 is shown in an open configuration, with the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b separated from one another
and generally allowing the light projection paths of the low
beam/high beam units 18 to pass between the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b. Again, all of the components are
disposed within and/or form part of an enclosed and/or sealed
housing (not illustrated) and optically transparent lens cover (not
illustrated), both of which are well known to those of ordinary
skill in the art. This forms a modular unit that can readily be
installed in a vehicle, as conventional light assemblies are.
[0043] Each of the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b is manufactured from a rigid plastic material or the like
and incorporates a plurality of LEDs, an LED light tube, or the
like suitable for forming a light signature when powered and
activated. Although elongate prismatic structures are illustrated,
any suitable shapes and configurations may be utilized. For
example, the movable light signature members 12a,12b may be
substantially cylindrical, arranged vertically instead of
horizontally, provide single points of light instead of linear
displays, etc., provided that they translate when actuated.
Further, a single movable light signature member 12a,12b can be
utilized, instead of a pair. In the exemplary embodiment
illustrated, the horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b
are aligned horizontally and adapted to translate apart from one
another vertically, thereby reveling the low beam/high beam units
18 disposed behind the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b between the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b, such that light may be projected from the low beam/high
beam units 18 between the horizontal movable light signature
members 12a,12b. Optionally, when the horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b are deployed, they move vertically up
down and are retracted into the housing above/below the low
beam/high beam units 18 such that they are no longer visibly
illuminated through the lens cover. They may also be shut off when
deployed in this manner. Alternatively, when the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b are deployed, they are positioned
such that they are still partially or wholly visibly illuminated
through the lens cover, although in a deployed position. In this
case, they are not shut off when deployed. In the exemplary
embodiment illustrated, the horizontal movable light signature
members 12a,12b have a slight downward slope from the end proximate
to the vertical stationary light signature member 14 to the end
remote from the vertical stationary light signature member 14,
although this slight downward slope is optional. Likewise, the
vertical stationary light signature member 14 has a slight slope
away from the horizontal movable light signature members 12a, 12b,
although this slight slope away is also optional.
[0044] Functionally, the horizontal movable light signatures
members 12a,12b may collectively operate as a daytime running
light, a turn signal indicator, a position light, and/or a welcome
light when activated.
[0045] Again, in this exemplary embodiment, the vertical stationary
light signature member 14 and the horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b, collectively forming a "t-shaped" light
signature. The vertical stationary light signature member 14 is
illuminated with one or more LEDs, an LED light tube, or the like
accordingly. It will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill
in the art that vertical stationary light signature member 14 does
not have to be used or can be otherwise positioned or aligned. In
the exemplary embodiment illustrated, the vertical stationary light
signature member 14 includes upper and lower portions that are
disposed at an angle to one another, although this is not strictly
necessary.
[0046] Functionally, the vertical stationary light signature member
14 operates as the daytime running light, the turn signal
indicator, the position light, and/or the welcome light with the
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b when activated,
or alone when the horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b are deployed and/or deactivated. The vertical stationary
light signature member 14 can also be selectively
activated/deactivated. The vertical stationary light signature
member 14 is also manufactured from a rigid plastic material or the
like and coupled to appropriate power and control systems.
[0047] Each of the actuation mechanisms 16 includes a gear
assembly, pivot assembly, or track system by which the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b are translated and/or
rotated from their closed configuration to their open configuration
and back again. A gear or pivot assembly is slightly preferred
because it provides smooth movement with less binding, although a
track system could be used. The best choice of actuation mechanism
type is dependent upon the desired direction and manner of
deployment of the movable light signature member(s) 12a,12b. In the
exemplary embodiment illustrated, each of the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b is coupled to the actuation
mechanisms by a pair of coupling members 20. It will be readily
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that only one of the
actuation mechanisms 16 may drive the movement of the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b, while the other actuation
mechanism 16 may simply guide such movement. Optionally, each of
the actuation mechanisms 16 includes one or more attachment points
22 by which the light assembly 10 is coupled to the housing, and/or
by which the housing is coupled to the vehicle, using screws or the
like. The actuation mechanisms 16 may be manufactured from a rigid
plastic material or the like, as well as the coupling members 20
and attachment points 22.
[0048] The low beam/high beam units 18 disposed behind/between the
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b, which
optionally consist of a single unit, are conventional headlight or
taillight units or the like that include a powered point light
source, reflector, etc. disposed in a beam housing and configured
to project light from a vehicle. These low beam/high beam units 18
may incorporate self-leveling functionality, corner-bending
functionality, and the like, all of which are well known to those
of ordinary skill in the art. Typically, when these beams are
engaged, the daytime running lights and the like are not.
[0049] FIG. 5 provides a view of the light assembly 10 from the
back and highlights the relative position of the low beam/high beam
units 18, as well as one exemplary embodiment of the actuation
mechanisms 16. In this exemplary embodiment, each actuation
mechanism 16 includes a plurality of gears 24 rotatably coupled to
a tray structure 26. The coupling members 20 associated with each
of the horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b are
pivotably coupled to the plurality of gears 24 via a plurality of
pins 28 or the like, such that when the plurality of gears 24 are
rotated, the coupling members 20 and associated horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b are rotated about the plurality of
gears 24, actuation mechanisms 16, and low beam/high beam units 18.
This is described in greater detail herein. It should be noted that
all actuation mechanisms components may be manufactured from a
rigid plastic material or the like.
[0050] FIG. 6 provides a view of the light assembly 10 from the top
and also highlights the relative position of the low beam/high beam
units 18. In this exemplary embodiment, the horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b are "swept back" from the end
remote from the vertical stationary light signature member 14 to
the end proximate the vertical stationary light signature member
14, and one of the low beam/high beam units 18 and actuation
mechanisms 16 is "set back" from the other of the low beam/high
beam units 18 and actuation mechanisms 16. An essentially "square"
configuration could of course also be utilized.
[0051] FIG. 7 is a partial front exploded perspective view of the
light assembly 10, incorporating the pair of horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b, the vertical stationary light
signature member 14, the low beam/high beam light units 18, and the
pair of actuation mechanisms 16, in a partially open/partially
closed configuration. Each actuation mechanism 16 includes the
plurality of gears 24 rotatably coupled to the tray structure 26.
The coupling members 20 associated with each of the horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b are pivotably coupled to
the plurality of gears 24 via the plurality of pins 28 or the like,
such that when the plurality of gears 24 are rotated, the coupling
members 20 and associated horizontal movable light signature
members 12a,12b are rotated about the plurality of gears 24,
actuation mechanisms 16, and low beam/high beam units 18. Here,
each of the gears 24 includes a post 30 that is disposed and
secured through and associated port 32 manufactured through or on
an interior surface of the associated tray structure 26, such that
the gear 24 may rotate (or be rotated) with respect to the tray
structure 26.
[0052] Referring now specifically to FIG. 8, one exemplary
embodiment of the actuation mechanism 16 is illustrated, utilizing
a plurality of upper gears 24a,24b that are arranged linearly,
rotatably coupled to the associated tray structure 26, and
pivotably coupled to the upper coupling member 20a associated with
the upper horizontal movable light signature member 12a via pins
28a,28b. Likewise, a plurality of lower gears 24c,24d are arranged
linearly, rotatably coupled to the associated tray structure 26,
and pivotably coupled to the lower coupling member 20b associated
with the lower horizontal movable light signature member 12b via
pins 28c,28d. In this exemplary embodiment, any of the gears
24a,24b,24c,24d can be a drive gear, but only select gears 24a,24c
and 24b,24d are directly coupled, with all gears 24a,24b,24c,24d
rotating and both coupling members 20a,20b and horizontal movable
light signature members 12a,12b pivoting and translating in unison.
This provides a robust and durable configuration that sacrifices
some economy of space, as the lines of gears are "stacked" on top
of each other.
[0053] Referring now specifically to FIG. 9, another exemplary
embodiment of the actuation mechanism 16 is illustrated, again
utilizing a plurality of upper gears 24a,24b that are arranged
linearly, rotatably coupled to the associated tray structure 26,
and pivotably coupled to the upper coupling member 20a associated
with the upper horizontal movable light signature member 12a via
pins 28a,28b. Likewise, a plurality of lower gears 24c,24d are
arranged linearly, rotatably coupled to the associated tray
structure 26, and pivotably coupled to the lower coupling member
20b associated with the lower horizontal movable light signature
member 12b via pins 28c,28d. In this exemplary embodiment, any of
the gears 24a,24b,24c,24d can be a drive gear, but all gears
24c,24a,24d,24b are coupled in sequence, with all gears
24a,24b,24c,24d rotating and both coupling members 20a,20b and
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b pivoting and
translating in unison. This provides a robust and durable
configuration that promotes economy of space, as the lines of gears
are "intertwined" with each other.
[0054] FIG. 10 is a partial front perspective view of another
exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly 10 provided
herein, incorporating the pair of horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b, the vertical stationary light signature
member 14, and the pair of actuation mechanisms 16, in a closed
configuration. Here, the shape and configuration of the various
components is simply modified to fit a given application, with
everything functioning in a similar manner. Such modifications are
contemplated herein.
[0055] FIG. 11 is a partial front exploded perspective view of
another exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly 10
provided herein, incorporating the pair of horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b, the vertical stationary light signature
member 14, and the pair of actuation mechanisms 16. Again, the
shape and configuration of the various components is simply
modified to fit a given application, with everything functioning in
a similar manner. Such modifications are contemplated herein.
[0056] FIG. 12 is a partial front perspective view of a further
exemplary embodiment of the vehicle light assembly 10 provided
herein, incorporating the pair of horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b, the vertical stationary light signature
member 14, and the pair of actuation mechanisms 16, in an open
configuration. Here, the shape and configuration of the various
components is simply modified to fit a different application, with
everything functioning in a similar manner. Such modifications are
contemplated herein.
[0057] FIG. 13 illustrates that the actuation mechanisms 16
disposed on either side of the light assembly 10 can be
collectively or independently driven. Optionally, one actuation
mechanism 16 acts as a drive actuation mechanism 16 and is coupled
to a follower actuation mechanism 16 via a mechanical link 36. In
this case, a drive motor 36 is coupled directly to the only the
drive actuation mechanism 16. Alternatively, both actuation
mechanisms 16 act as drive actuation mechanisms 16. In this case, a
drive motor 36 is coupled directly to both drive actuation
mechanisms 16. Preferably, theses dual drive motors 36 are commonly
controlled and are synced to operate in unison, such that both
sides of the horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12a are
actuated evenly and no twisting results.
[0058] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates one method by which the
actuation mechanism 16 is driven by the actuation motor 36, in
either a one-motor or two-motor setup. The actuation motor 36 is
coupled to a rotating (or translating) actuation member 38 that is
coupled to or otherwise actuates one or more of the gears 24 (or
other actuation structures), thereby actuating any coupled gears 24
(or other actuation structures), the associated coupling members
20, and the associated horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b.
[0059] FIGS. 15 and 16 schematically illustrate another method by
which the actuation mechanism 16 is driven by the actuation motor
36, in either a one-motor or two-motor setup. The actuation motor
36 is again coupled to a rotating (or translating) actuation member
38 that is coupled to or otherwise actuates one or more of the
gears 24 (or other actuation structures), thereby actuating any
coupled gears 24 (or other actuation structures), the associated
coupling members 20, and the associated horizontal movable light
signature members 12a,12b. Here, if the actuation motor 36 fails or
power is lost, the rotating (or translating) actuation member 38
can be manually actuated by a manual actuation member 40 that is
provided as part of the actuation mechanism 16. The manual
actuation member 40 includes a drive gear 42 that is configured to
be deployed into contact with and rotationally actuate a follower
gear 44 coupled to the actuation member 38. FIG. 15 shows the
manual actuation member 40 in a withdrawn configuration. FIG. 16
shows the manual actuation member 40 in an engaged
configuration.
[0060] FIG. 17 schematically illustrates a further method by which
the actuation mechanism 16 is driven by the actuation motor 36, in
either a one-motor or two-motor setup. The actuation motor 36 is
coupled to and directly actuates one of the gears 24b (or other
actuation structures), thereby actuating any coupled gears 24 (or
other actuation structures), the associated coupling members 20,
and the associated horizontal movable light signature members
12a,12b.
[0061] FIG. 18 schematically illustrates a still further method by
which the actuation mechanism 16 is driven by the actuation motor
36, in either a one-motor or two-motor setup. The actuation motor
36 is coupled to and directly actuates one of the gears 24b (or
other actuation structures) through a drive gear 46, thereby
actuating any coupled gears 24 (or other actuation structures), the
associated coupling members 20, and the associated horizontal
movable light signature members 12a,12b.
[0062] FIG. 19 schematically illustrates a still further method by
which the actuation mechanism 16 is driven by the actuation motor
36, in either a one-motor or two-motor setup. The actuation motor
36 is coupled to and directly actuates one of the gears 24d (or
other actuation structures) through a translating drive link 48,
thereby actuating any coupled gears 24 (or other actuation
structures), the associated coupling members 20, and the associated
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b.
[0063] Finally, FIG. 20 schematically illustrates a still further
method by which the actuation mechanism 16 is driven by the
actuation motor 36, in either a one-motor or two-motor setup. The
actuation motor 36 is coupled to and directly actuates one of the
gears 24b (or other actuation structures) through a rotating drive
link 50, thereby actuating any coupled gears 24 (or other actuation
structures), the associated coupling members 20, and the associated
horizontal movable light signature members 12a,12b.
[0064] It is to be recognized that, depending on the example,
certain acts or events of any of the techniques described herein
can be performed in a different sequence, may be added, merged, or
left out altogether (e.g., not all described acts or events are
necessary for the practice of the techniques). Moreover, in certain
examples, acts or events may be performed concurrently, e.g.,
through multi-threaded processing, interrupt processing, or
multiple processors, rather than sequentially.
[0065] In one or more examples, the functions described herein may
be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination
thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored or
transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a
computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based
processing unit. Computer-readable media may include
computer-readable storage media, which corresponds to a tangible
medium, such as data storage media, or communication media,
including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer
program from one place to another, e.g., according to a
communication protocol. In this manner, computer-readable media
generally may correspond to (1) tangible computer-readable storage
media which is non-transitory or (2) a communication medium such as
a signal or carrier wave. Data storage media may be any available
media that can be accessed by one or more computers or one or more
processors to retrieve instructions, code, and/or data structures
for implementation of the techniques described in this disclosure.
A computer program product may include a computer-readable
medium.
[0066] By way of example, and not limitation, such
computer-readable storage media can include random-access memory
(RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable
read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM),
or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other
magnetic storage devices, flash memory, or any other medium that
can be used to store desired program code in the form of
instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a
computer. Also, any connection is properly termed a
computer-readable medium. For example, if instructions are
transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a
coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber
line (DSL), or wireless technologies, such as infrared, radio, and
microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair,
DSL, or wireless technologies, such as infrared, radio, and
microwave are included in the definition of medium. It should be
understood, however, that computer-readable storage media and data
storage media do not include connections, carrier waves, signals,
or other transitory media, but are instead directed to
non-transitory, tangible storage media. Disk and disc, as used
herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc,
digital versatile disc (DVD), and Blu-ray disc, where disks usually
reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically
with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included
within the scope of computer-readable media.
[0067] Instructions may be executed by one or more processors, such
as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose
microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs),
field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), complex programmable logic
devices (CPLDs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic
circuitry. Accordingly, the term "processor," as used herein may
refer to any of the foregoing structure or any other structure
suitable for implementation of the techniques described herein. In
addition, in some aspects, the functionality described herein may
be provided within dedicated hardware and/or software modules.
Also, the techniques could be fully implemented in one or more
circuits or logic elements.
[0068] The techniques of this disclosure may be implemented in a
wide variety of devices or apparatuses, including an integrated
circuit (IC) or a set of ICs (e.g., a chip set). Various
components, modules, or units are described in this disclosure to
emphasize functional aspects of devices configured to perform the
disclosed techniques, but do not necessarily require realization by
different hardware units. Rather, as described above, various units
may be combined in a hardware unit or provided by a collection of
interoperative hardware units, including one or more processors as
described above, in conjunction with suitable software and/or
firmware.
[0069] Although the present invention is illustrated and described
herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific
examples thereof, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform
similar functions and/or achieve like results. All such equivalent
embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the
present invention, are contemplated thereby, and are intended to be
covered by the following non-limiting claims for all purposes.
* * * * *